For agentic software work, a plan turns project intent into implementation stages that can be checked independently. It identifies prerequisites, likely files or systems, validation and decisions that require human input.
A plan should adapt when repository evidence contradicts its assumptions. Separating planning from execution makes those assumptions easier to review before they become widespread code changes.
ELI5
Task planning turns a goal into an ordered set of actions. The plan accounts for what must happen first, which tools or skills are available, and which conditions need to be true.
For example, a robot asked to move a package may locate it, clear a route, pick it up, travel, and place it at the destination. If the route becomes blocked, the planner updates the steps instead of following the old plan blindly.
What should a software task plan include?
It should include objectives, steps, dependencies, scope, validation, risks and decisions that need review.
Why separate planning from implementation?
Separation makes assumptions and scope easier to inspect before code changes make them costly.
